Under the supervision of the Executive Director, DAR Communications and Marketing, the Graphic Designer develops and implements creative design strategies for Rice's Development and Alumni Relations division. Specific duties include the design of print communications such as direct mail solicitations, invitations, brochures and newsletters, as well as digital communications including webpages, emails, social media campaigns and video graphics. The Graphic Designer also helps develop communication plans and strategies, stays abreast of best practices and trends, attends and/or advises on press checks, and helps ensure the high quality and visual consistency of marketing materials produced by the Development and Alumni Relations division. Finally, the Graphic Designer works closely with campus partners, including Rice's Public Affairs division, to represent and promote Rice University's brand.
The ideal candidate will be a highly versatile and organized creative professional who works collaboratively with a team of writers, designers, web and social media staff, and production managers to effectively engage Rice's constituents in the life of the university.
This position currently has a hybrid work arrangement, with a minimum of two days per week in the office.
Requirements
Bachelor's Degree
Two years of related experience, including graphic design for print and web communications
Skills Required
Demonstrated understanding of graphic design principles, and expertise in Adobe creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign for PC
Ability to design and produce quick turnaround print materials
Basic proficiency in writing, editing, and proofing, with knowledge of grammar and punctuation
Ability to understand materials of moderate complexity and synthesize across multiple sources to produce materials for diverse audiences
Firm understanding of web technologies and applications, including social networking, social media tools, and current communication trends
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to manage and prioritize multiple deadlines
Excellent time management skills
Essential Functions
Designs and produces in-house communications materials
Compiles and / or prepares complex illustrations, photos, and pictures for graphic design assignments
Maintains the visual quality, consistency and tone of all print and web material, ensuring that content is fresh and follows best practices
Serves as a catalyst for creative thought, project timeliness, and completion
Provides art direction and takes photos for quick-turnaround communication pieces
Performs all other duties as assigned
Additional Functions
Responsible for budget oversight and cost control pertaining to individual print projects
As a representative of the university, the graphic designer must be circumspect about spending university funds and must understand the fundraising efforts being undertaken by the university
Occasionally, work may extend beyond business hours in order to meet deadlines, and attendance at after-hours departmental events on or off campus may be required
Preferences
Experience providing art direction to photographers, videographers and other vendors
Experience working collaboratively and leading creative projects, including pitching concepts to clients/partners
Ample experience designing in a variety of web formats, including, but not limited to, mobile responsive and parallax websites, a variety of social formats, emails, etc.
Experience with film editing and production and motion graphics illustration
Experience using and working with database information systems
Skills
Ability to take high-quality photographs, including individual portraits, studio shots, candid and event photos, etc.
Ability to develop and implement creative social media marketing strategies
Design for the web with knowledge of UX/UI and accessibility best practices
Ability to use CMS systems to create webpages and knowledge of basic HTML
Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels, and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.
Faculty and staff are expected (but not required) to have completed a full vaccination series for COVID-19, currently defined as full course COVID-19 Vaccine (typically two shots of a WHO-approved COVID-19 Vaccine or one J&J) and a COVID-19 booster. Rice does not require documentation for COVID-19 vaccination at this time for faculty and staff. More information can be found here: https://coronavirus.rice.edu/policies
As a leading research university with a distinctive commitment to undergraduate education, Rice University aspires to pathbreaking research, unsurpassed teaching and contributions to the betterment of our world. It seeks to fulfill this mission by cultivating a diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders across the spectrum of human endeavor.